Device and method for controlling fecal incontinence

Abstract

This invention is directed to a device and a method for controlling fecal incontinence. The device of this invention is easily inserted into the anal canal, and is designed for remaining where required in the anal canal or rectum, above the dentate line and hemorrhoidal vein area, despite the peristaltic movements of the intestine.

The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A method for controlling fecal incontinence in a patient comprising:
 a) inserting a body of a device into the patient's anal canal or rectum, and locating the body above the dentate line, wherein the body is attached to withdrawal means and to a stopper that remains outside the patient's anal canal or rectum, wherein the body of the device has an inner surface and an outer surface, and wherein the outer surface of the device is exposed while inserting the body of the device; 
 b) optionally filling the body of the device with a gas, a liquid or a combination thereof; and 
 c) when bowel emptying is desired, exposing the inner surface of the body of the device, concealing the outer surface of the body of the device, and withdrawing the device from the anal canal by the withdrawal means; 
 wherein the outer surface of the body comprises bristles, jags, notches, indentations or any combination thereof, such that the peristaltic movements cause the body to move upwards, or remain at a required location in the anal canal or rectum, instead of moving downwards, and wherein the stopper prevents unlimited upward movement of the body of the device, and wherein the inner surface of the body is smooth, such that, when the inner surface is exposed, the body of the device moves downwards in the anal canal. 
 
     
     
       2. The method according to  claim 1 ,
 wherein the body of the device has an inflated and a non-inflated configuration, 
 wherein step (a) is conducted in the non-inflated configuration, and 
 wherein the body of the device is transformed from the non-inflated configuration to the inflated configuration by conducting step (b) after step (a) is completed. 
 
     
     
       3. The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the withdrawal means includes a twine attached to the body such that withdrawing the device in step (c) includes turning the body inside-out, exposing the inner surface and emptying any gas or liquid filling the body. 
     
     
       4. The method according to  claim 1 , further comprising absorbing or neutralizing fluids, gases or a combination thereof, originating from the intestines, in the body of the device or on the outer surface of the body of the device.